Deep in southern Mexico, near the Guatemalan border, sits the Mexican state of Chiapas. Amidst the overgrown jungle of this beautiful, remote region sits the remains of the once-great Mayan civilisation. The breathtaking ruins of the ancient Mayan city of Yaxchilán sit along the banks of the Usumacinta River, which forms the border between Mexico and Guatemala. Hundreds of miles from the nearest hotel room and only accessible via boat, it’s the epitome of a hidden gem. Hanging vines and massive leaves envelop the ruins of the beautiful former city, which was at the peak of its power between AD 681 and 800. Many of the old structures are still adorned with the ancient carvings that are surprisingly still intact – including depictions of kings, jaguars and crocodiles.